29. Jake Long, T, Miami Dolphins: He's a rock on the left side of the Miami line. He's improved greatly as a run blocker, and he excels in pass protection. He had one bad game -- the opener against the Falcons -- and then played at a high level in 2009.

40. Brandon Marshall, WR, Miami Dolphins: The Denver Broncos tired of his act, but they will miss his ability. He doesn't have blazing speed, but he is strong and knows how to get open. A new team will be good for him.

1. Peyton Manning, QB, Indianapolis Colts: He turned 34 in March, but he is still playing at a high level. Some Colts insiders say he had his best season in 2009. Could he actually be getting better?

2. Tom Brady, QB, New England Patriots: It's trendy to bash him and say he wasn't the same player he had been in 2009. I don't buy it. His yardage total was the second-best of his career.

3. Drew Brees, QB, New Orleans Saints: Winning a Super Bowl helps his cachet, but he's just outside the Big Two. Win another one, and we might have to re-think that.

4. Darrelle Revis, CB, New York Jets: Revis Island is a quarterback's nightmare. He is now the best cover player in the NFL, and there's great value in that, which is why he's clamoring for a new contract.

5. DeMarcus Ware, OLB, Dallas Cowboys: His sack numbers fell from 20 to 11 last season, but he is still the elite pass-rushing linebacker in the league. He has also improved against the run.

6. Chris Johnson, RB, Tennessee Titans: His 2,000-yard season makes him a big jumper on this list. Now he has to get his contract issues behind him and show he can have another big season.

7. Andre Johnson, WR, Houston Texans: This quiet receiver -- yes, there is one -- is the game's best. He is big, strong and fast. He's in his prime now.

8. Adrian Peterson, RB, Minnesota Vikings: The only knock on him is his fumbling problems. He has big-play speed, and he can run inside the tackles.

9. Philip Rivers, QB, San Diego Chargers: Many will say this is way too high, but I think he's an elite passer now. He averaged 8.8 per attempt last season, best in the league.

10. Dwight Freeney, DE, Indianapolis Coltss: He had 13½ sacks in only nine starts, limited by injuries. When he's healthy, there is no better down edge rusher in the game.